15. The Party
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
THE PARTY
I didn’t see Riel the next day, or the day after that. Luenki, bless her heart, did her best to keep me comfortable and calm. She brought me more clothes and several books in English, which someone must have transported through The Rift at some point. To pass the time, she told me stories of Riel’s childhood, which I devoured eagerly, and taught me several games. One involved a carved board with many colorful little stones. That led to her teaching me the numbers one through ten in the Ishameti language, as well as a few additional words.
Despite Luenki’s best efforts, by the time the day of the party came, I was reduced to a bundle of nerves. The grounding exercises seemed to make no difference, so I’d all but given up on them by that point, and the guilt was getting to me. I also hadn’t gotten much sleep, too busy stressing over whatever might be going on in Riel’s head on top of trying to figure out how best to navigate this event without any issues. More than once, I’d caught myself petting my party dress, as if the repetitive motion would somehow relieve a portion of the anxiety I was feeling.
The morning before the event, the castle was abuzz in a way I had never seen it. By the time the first rays of sunlight began streaming through my window, people were up and bustling around, the hallway outside my room noisy with traffic. The morning was uneventful, but when I stepped out to get my late morning meal, or what I’d affectionately dubbed “elevenses,” I almost walked right into a pair of soldiers who were patrolling up and down the hallways.
I quickly retrieved my tray, scampered back, and shut the door behind me. After deciding to stay put until I heard from Luenki or Riel, I spent the next couple of hours playing the fae version of chess with myself and trying not to succumb to the jitters.
It was getting to be early afternoon before there was a polite knock at the door. The part of me that missed Riel was disappointed when it turned out to be Luenki once again, although I was happy to see her. She wore a stunning sleeveless pomegranate gown with a high neck.
“How are you doing?” she asked, studying my face for any signs of distress.
“Hanging in there,” I replied, making an effort to school my features into the picture of serenity. “You look gorgeous. Did you want to come in?”
“Thank you.” Luenki beamed. “But no. I came to let you know that preparations are complete and guests have begun arriving. There is no formal ceremony to commence the event, so you may join us in the Great Hall whenever you are ready.”
My hand tightened on the door. “Oh, yeah, sure. Give me a few minutes.” I started to draw back when a rare burst of courage hit. “Actually, uh… that’s the main room right when you enter, right? I know the way. You can go on ahead, so I won't keep you waiting.”
“Are you certain? I do not mind accompanying you there.”
“I’ll be fine,” I promised, shaking my head. “You’re too good to me, Luenki. I’ll come find you in like… twenty minutes, how about that?”
She considered my proposition .
“If you are sure,” she conceded, albeit hesitantly. “Then, I will see you soon.”
“See you soon!” I raised a hand in farewell. Luenki bobbed her head before disappearing down the hallway, and I retreated back into my room.
It was strange no longer having a personal stylist to attend to my outfit, hair, and makeup for events like these, but I was determined to make the most of it on my own. I started by getting into my custom dress. “Ah, shit,” I said out loud upon realizing that turning Luenki away meant I had to cinch up the laces on the back by myself.
I moved to the bathroom to use the mirror. By contorting my neck and looking over my shoulder, I was able to thread the laces and draw them tight one by one. It was a painstaking process, and by the end of it, my neck was sore. I needed to ask someone if I could work my healing powers into dress-making ones, because that would be ridiculously helpful.
It took more than twenty minutes to make myself presentable, but when I saw myself in the bathroom mirror, I was pleasantly surprised. I’d twisted my copper hair up into a bun and secured it with a claw clip, since that was nicer than leaving it down. I’d also bumbled my way through a touch of eyeshadow. I finished off the look with sandals with a wedge heel. While I wasn’t going to stand out compared to any of the fae, the result was acceptable.
I was especially happy with the changes I’d made to the dress. Where it had originally featured an ankle-length layered skirt, now it had tight-fitting pants made from the same midnight indigo material underneath a skirt overlay that flared out from my hips. Business in the front, party in the back—just the right amount of formal, still modest, but a little more me.
Knowing that Luenki was probably going to be waiting with bated breath until I showed my face, I headed out without further delay. As I made my way to the throne room, I could already make out a swell of murmured conversations and folky string music. The tension that had gripped me the past few days doubled, but I forced my legs to keep moving.
I was familiar with social events involving foreign dignitaries and VIPs. If I treated this like the others, what was there to worry about? Really, this should be easier. Then again, there was no reason for a member of Congress to kill me where I stood. Was that what this was about—a fear that I wouldn’t make it back to my room in one piece? That was a stretch, even for me. Nothing I’d seen or heard so far gave me the impression that the people here wanted me dead. And I was under the protection of the leading family, wasn’t I?
I set my shoulders back and raised my chin as I approached the staircase that led down into the room. Fear is the old me , I told myself. Today, I was just another guest, here to enjoy the food, pleasant conversation, and dancing the same as anyone else.
The wall gave way to open space. They’d really gone all out with the decorations. The beams on the ceiling, which resembled tree branches, were studded with flowers. The floor had been polished to a mirror-like shine that reflected the colorful dresses, the pillars gleamed like a dragon’s hoard, and even the color of the walls was different—a warm blush that flattered the artistic touches of silver. How much of this was done with magic versus by hand?
Pausing at the top of the stairs, I looked over the sea of faces in search of familiar ones. It was a challenge given the number of attendees with some version of blond hair and blue eyes. As I took in the crowd, however, I noticed several fae that were closer to average human height and had darker coloring. Interest piqued, I continued scanning the area for anyone that stood out. There was a man and woman standing by the musicians that were barely three feet tall. I even spotted one lady who was sky-blue from head to toe. Her dress appeared to be see-through, but I couldn’t tell if that was a trick of the light.
Realizing that I was staring, I forced my eyes away. I hadn’t seen Luenki or Riel yet, but I did notice tables of food at the far end of the room, and that was good enough for me. To my immense relief, no one stared as I made my way down the steps to join the revelers. The music played without pause, attendees mingled and chatted in their beautiful lilting language, and I was only given a few curious glances when I stepped onto the floor.
I made a beeline for the tables brimming with goodies. The first one was covered in tall, elegant glasses with a pale, golden liquid inside. I helped myself to one and took a sip, expecting champagne. It had no bubbles, but the flavor was exquisite, sweet and smooth with a citrusy zing. I finished it off, savoring the pleasant warmth as it traveled down to my stomach. No sooner had I drained it than an employee relieved me of my glass, so I helped myself to another.
“You may want to go easy on that,” a voice said from behind, startling me before I had the chance to place it. I spun around, and my shoulders dropped in relief when I saw that it was Riel. He was dressed in a satiny silver getup similar to what he’d worn when I first met him. Like that time, he had a delicate corset-like piece around his middle. I gathered that this was formal wear. His impressive earrings, practically chandeliers capping each ear tip, all but confirmed it for me.
His head dipped as he returned the perusal, taking in my figure from head to toe. Then he inclined his head at the glass in my hand. “Our nectar wine has been known to cause adverse effects in humans. Lowered inhibitions, spontaneous laughter, an increase in poor decisions…” He paused a moment before adding, “In extreme cases, a propensity for promiscuity.”
“Sounds like a good time,” I retorted, raising the glass. “Where I come from, we have entire buildings dedicated to the sale and consumption of alcohol. I know what it does.” I took another sip and licked my lips, savoring the sweetness. Riel watched the motion intently before glancing around the room as if to make sure no one else had seen. I started to ask if everything was all right, but I didn’t have the chance.
“Would you like to dance?” He changed the subject.
“Probably shouldn’t. I’ve got two left feet.” I wiggled my toes in my sandals to emphasize my words. Riel glanced down, puzzled. I hid a smile behind my glass as I imbibed another mouthful. The warmth that spread through my core was addicting. It also granted me a much-needed push to be brave. “You know what?” I said. “I changed my mind.”
I looked around for a place to leave my glass. Not finding one, I shrugged and downed the rest of my drink. It joined my first on the castle employee’s tray.
“Shall we?” I offered my hand with a flourish.
Riel blinked at it. He recovered quickly and, hiding a smile, stepped in to link his arm with mine instead. His heat suffused my side. On our way toward the musicians, I caught sight of Luenki through the crowd. Her eyebrows rose, and I made a subtle gesture that I hoped came across as “all’s well.” To my relief, she inclined her head to show that she understood and moved on. I returned my attention to the task at hand, determined to tackle it with grace.
Riel guided me to the section of floor nearest the musicians, which seemed to be allocated for dancing. We joined several individuals and couples who were already swaying to the music and engaging in more complex dances. Upon seeing that, my courage began to wane. Even if it wasn’t that formal, I doubted that Ridin’ the Pony would be socially acceptable here.
As if reading my mind, Riel took me off to one side of the floor. He gathered me into a starting position with his hands on my hips, then led me through a simple dance that went along with the music. I floundered at first, but after a few steps, we were back in the starting position. On the third repetition, I got the hang of it, and a wide grin split my face.
“This isn’t nearly as bad as I thought,” I exclaimed, pleased with myself .
“It is said a capable partner can teach even an avida to dance,” Riel remarked.
“Do they say that?” I wondered, calling to mind the mental image of a dancing avida .
“I did,” he admitted. “Just now.”
I swatted him on the shoulder as we passed each other back to back.
“Well, I’ll take the capable partner, even if he comes with an attitude.” I heaved a wistful sigh, wishing for more moments like this. “I wouldn’t know the first thing about dancing to this kind of music. I’ve got the disco finger or Thriller in my repertoire, and that’s about it. I could probably fumble my way through a waltz if I tried, but it’s been a while.”
“Perhaps I could be the student for one evening,” Riel offered, pausing to convey his willingness. “Show me your dances. I’m sure I can learn them.”
I tried to imagine the fae prince doing the disco finger and a smile tugged at my mouth. Shaking my head, I pushed him gently back into motion. “I think not. But it’s sweet of you to offer.”
We reached the starting position again, with his hands resting on my hips. This time, instead of beginning the dance, he lingered there. I shot him a questioning glance, and his eyes caught mine and held them. The intensity there caused a pleasant tingle to travel throughout my body, from the pit of my stomach all the way down to my toes. God, I could happily drown to death in that color. The world could end right now, and I wouldn’t even be mad.
“You are radiant,” he said softly. “Always, but this evening in particular.”
I turned my head to hide my blush.
“Thank you. I can’t remember ever having to dress myself up for anything. Honestly, it’s a miracle I managed it. Well, the dress wasn’t me, of course—that was thanks to Luenki and the dress lady. That’s probably the coolest magic I’ve seen yet. I guess the only magic I’ve seen, aside from yours that one time. Not that yours wasn’t cool!” Aaand I was babbling.
Riel chuckled and swept me into another dance. When that song ended, there was scattered applause. Another began, this one more lively than the first. Judging by the way the other dancers split off, it was not meant to be a couples dance, but Riel stayed close anyway. We made something up, his motions spontaneous and yet controlled. Without guidance, I couldn’t do much more than awkwardly sway from side to side and move my arms around.
Eventually, there was a lull in the music, and I seized the chance to take a break.
“I need a drink,” I excused myself, abandoning the dance floor in favor of the table full of not-champagne. I helped myself to another glass and downed it quickly, then took a moment to catch my breath. This is more fun than I’ve had in ages , I thought, still reeling with joy. Why weren’t balls a regular thing back on Earth? We were missing out.
Riel appeared at my elbow and took a glass for himself. He savored the drink rather than making it disappear as I had. Although he’d relaxed somewhat since taking me to the dance floor, there was still tension in the way he carried himself. He appeared more alert than usual too. I surveyed the crowd, uncertain what he knew that I didn’t. Nothing stood out to me.
“Are you all right?” I asked, keeping my voice low in case there was something nefarious afoot.
“Yes, thank you,” Riel responded lightly. The tension remained.
“Are we all right?” I revised my question, raising a meaningful eyebrow. He seemed to pick up on my concern then, angling his body toward me to give me his full attention.
“We are,” he assured me. “I apologize for my inattentiveness. The last few days have been… stressful. I kept thinking that things would settle down, but they haven’t yet.”
I nodded and returned to a relaxed position. I should have left it at that, but I couldn’t help but ask. “Is that why you’ve been avoiding me? ‘Cause it’s fine, I totally get being busy.”
Riel's face flooded with shame. “You should know that I intended to return to you that night,” he told me earnestly. “But there are things at play that…” The glass in his hand wobbled as he tried to find the words. “I can’t afford to draw the wrong attention to you.”
“That’s fine,” I hurried to reassure him. I’d have time to worry about what he meant by “the wrong attention” later. “It’s fine. It’s complicated, I know. And I’m doing okay. I mean, I miss our hangouts, but obviously, I don’t want you to get in trouble.”
His lips pressed together in a thin line, betraying his frustration.
“If there’s anything I can do to help, let me know,” I offered. I knew it was an empty offer. There wasn’t really anything I could do, except… “If it’s just not a good time right now, I’m sure I could go back to the military base for a while and come back when things are better. I’ve already taken advantage of your hospitality for so long.” I gripped a handful of my skirt as I spoke, fighting to keep my voice even so as not to show how much I didn’t want that.
“No. I want you close,” Riel said quickly, only appearing to realize what he said after the words left his mouth. My heart soared at the confession, but he made a sound in his throat and turned away from me in embarrassment. “That is to say, it helps to know that… you’re being looked after,” he amended, taking another sip of his drink. “Even if I can’t be there. I trust Luenki explicitly.”
“I’m sure Vivian could look after me just fine,” I murmured, taking a fourth glass of wine in hopes of drowning the swarm of butterflies in my stomach. “But, um… I appreciate that.”
“I care about you, eseri .”
I glanced his way, surprised at both his choice of words and the serious tone, but Riel’s attention was focused on the last inch of liquid in his glass. Just as well, because it was hard enough to breathe without his eyes on me. He didn’t appear to expect a response, but I was feeling particularly brave with the alcohol coursing through my system.
“I care about you too,” I said softly. My face felt a little too warm for comfort, but my response came out steady. I directed my own gaze downward. “But, if I’m being honest, you’re a little confusing. It’s kind of hard to know where we stand right now, what with the teasing and then giving me goo-goo eyes and then running away and avoiding me, and now this… I don’t want to misunderstand anything, so maybe you could clarify what you mean by that?”
He hesitated, and I thought the worst. My stomach twisted itself into knots. I tried not to let it get to me, but my hand tightened on my glass, and I started to think of ways I could gracefully excuse myself and return to my room without anyone noticing.
“You’re right,” he said finally, resolved. “I should make myself clear.”